NEXA Lending announced a strategic investment and phased acquisition agreement with Copper Ridge Ventures (CRV), a mortgage joint venture holding company owned by Tim Owens. The partnership is designed to support NEXA’s broader strategy of working with experienced owner-operators to scale mortgage origination, marketing capabilities, joint venture formation, and operational infrastructure.
Under the agreement, NEXA will provide Copper Ridge Ventures with support across several core business functions, including marketing, information technology, licensing, loan processing, human resources, compliance, and operational infrastructure. Copper Ridge Ventures and its affiliated businesses will also integrate NEXA’s systems and strategic partnerships to improve operational efficiency and create long-term enterprise value.
Copper Ridge Ventures specializes in supporting mortgage joint ventures between mortgage loan officers and real estate professionals, with a focus on strengthening alignment between partners while expanding operational support and growth opportunities.
NEXA said the transaction reflects its ongoing effort to position itself as a technology-enabled and originator-focused platform in the mortgage industry. The company emphasized its asset-light operating model, AI-forward strategy, and experience in rapidly establishing joint ventures as key advantages in helping Copper Ridge Ventures scale.
The relationship also builds on longstanding professional ties between Tim Owens and NEXA leadership. NEXA President Geri Farr and Chief Strategy Officer Tammy Richards have worked with Owens for decades, creating what the company described as a foundation of trust and operational alignment.
Columbia West Capital served as financial advisor to NEXA on the transaction.
Founded as a mortgage platform focused on independent loan originators, NEXA Lending provides technology, infrastructure, and operational support intended to help mortgage professionals expand their businesses. Copper Ridge Ventures operates as a holding company focused on mortgage joint ventures between mortgage professionals and real estate partners.
KEY QUOTES:
“This is exactly the kind of strategic move NEXA is built for. We have the platform, the technology, the infrastructure, and the people to help strong operators scale faster. Copper Ridge Ventures gives us an opportunity to continue expanding our joint venture strategy with a team that understands the market and knows how to grow.”
Mike Kortas, CEO, NEXA
“We are not just investing in a company. We are investing in the right people, the right operators, and the right long-term opportunity to create value for our originators. NEXA is uniquely positioned to be an ideal partner for Copper Ridge Ventures. Our asset-light, technology-enabled operating model, AI-forward approach, and deep experience in rapid joint venture formation will help Tim Owens and his team accelerate CRV’s growth and drive operational efficiencies.”
Geri Farr, President, NEXA
“This partnership represents a significant milestone for Copper Ridge Ventures. By leveraging NEXA’s centralized technology, compliance, and operational resources, CRV is well-positioned to expand our joint venture footprint and enhance the support we provide to our partners and clients.”
Tim Owens, Founder, Copper Ridge Ventures
